Experience Mexico’s past and present as you explore the ancient Mayan archaeological site of Izapa. Visit the planetarium and learn about Mayan cosmology, watch a Mayan dance performance and wander through Tapachula’s town square on a tour that will educate and delight you.

How do I book excursions?

Once you've booked your cruise, click on "Log In to My NCL" and enter your user name and password. If you are a new user, create an account. Once you're logged in, you should see a summary of your booked cruise(s). Click the button for "Shore Excursions". If this button is not clickable, you may need to wait at least 60 days prior to your vacation date. Once you get to the Shore Excursions shopping page, you should see each port city offering Shore Excursions for every day of your cruise itinerary. Click through each port city to get more info and pre-book excursions for each guest you’re traveling with. You can also call 1-866-625-1167 if you have any questions.

Chiapas Through the Ages

Experience Mexico’s past and present as you explore the ancient Mayan archaeological site of Izapa, visit the planetarium and learn about Mayan cosmology, watch Maya dancers perform and then wander through Tapachula’s town square on a tour that will both educate and delight you.

You’ll take an approximately 45-minute bus ride to the ancient ruins of Izapa. From its beginnings as a small village around 1500 B.C., Izapa grew into the region’s most influential cultural and commercial center with an estimated population of about 10,000 at its peak. It was believed to be site where the sacred Mayan calendar originated and the leader in the region’s production of the highly valued cacao. Upon arrival, take a guided tour of the main buildings and learn about the history and enjoy some free time to explore on your own.

From here, you’ll travel by bus to the culturally diverse city of Tapachula whose history and heritage has been influenced not only by the Mayans, Mestizo and Spanish but by German, Chinese, Japanese and French immigrants as well. Your tour guide will introduce you to some the city’s highlights during a short walking tour around the town square. You’ll have free time for shopping in local artisan shops for leather goods, ceramics and more. Continue to Tapachula’s Planetarium for a presentation inside the dome about Mayan astronomy and cosmology and watch Mayan dancers perform, before returning by bus to your ship.

Note: Participants should wear a hat and comfortable shoes. Bring eco-friendly sunscreen and bug repellent. Most areas are not wheelchair accessible.

Tours with this activity level involve walking over relatively level terrain, possibly some cobblestone, gravel, or a few steps. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Tours with this activity level involve a considerable amount of physical activity such as substantial walking over cobblestone streets, uneven or steep terrain, climbing stairs, or extended periods of standing. Not recommended for guests with physical limitations. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are recommended.

Tours with this activity level involve physical exertion for extended periods of time; can involve uneven or steep terrain or swimming in a light current. Recommended only for physically fit and adventurous travelers.